Hamilton Island workers camp planned after Whitsunday tourism records smashed

Record numbers in post-pandemic tourism have ignited plans for a construction workers’ camp on a Queensland island, as part of a major investment into visitor infrastructure.

A Queensland island has planned a workers camp as infrastructure invesment follows record tourist numbers.

A Queensland island has applied to build a workers’ camp as renewed investment in the hotspot’s infrastructure follows a record tourist season.

Hamilton Island expects major construction over the next few years and has drafted plans for cabins on Palm Valley Way.

The proposal comes after $3 million was pledged as part of the Great Barrier Reef Island Marine Infrastructure Package.

Documents state “the accommodation is necessary to support significant construction works proposed on the island over the next 4-5 years”.

A temporary workers camp has been proposed on Hamilton Island as resorts plan further construction. Photo: Contributed

“The proposed development will ensure that temporary construction workers can be appropriately accommodated.”

Plans show 11 cabins, each with four small rooms with ensuites, placed around a communal kitchen and laundry.

Buggies, one of the main forms of transport on the island, have a dedicated parking lot also.

Last year was the most successful post-pandemic tourist season for the region yet, with 923,000 domestic visitors spending $1.5 billion dollars in the Whitsundays.

A temporary workers camp has been proposed on Hamilton Island as resorts plan further construction. Photo: Contributed

The development also comes after the Queensland Government dedicated extra funding to rejuvenating island resorts.

Mackay Isaac Tourism interim chief executive officer Tash Wheeler said “a particular challenge for the region is island access” due to minimal maritime infrastructure, boat ramps or transportation.

“If there is good accessibility for the movement of goods, services and people, there’s potential to develop the region’s island tourism and economy,” Ms Wheeler said.

Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays. Picture: Lisa Maree

“With unique island landscapes, white sand beaches, tropical rainforests and native wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy on the islands.”

Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert said the infrastructure package would prepare the region in the run up to the Olympics.

“This funding (will) become a catalyst for private investment in new and upgraded resorts, eco-tourism opportunities and unique tropical island experiences,” Ms Gilbert said.

A temporary workers camp has been proposed on Hamilton Island as resorts plan further construction. Photo: Contributed

“We have a golden opportunity to build on that by showing our wonderful islands to the world ahead of the 2032 Games.

“More investment in Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef islands means more tourism and more good, secure jobs for our visitor economy.”

The $3m Marine Infrastructure Package follows $25m from the Great Barrier Reef Island Resorts Rejuvenation Program.

An aerial view of Hamilton Island overlooking the Whitsundays. Picture: Andrew Evans

The $25m program built new water, sewerage and waste facilities, viewing platforms, and a new marina terminal.

These updated and renewed walking trails across the still largely undeveloped island aimed to improve the “capacity of infrastructure” while reducing carbon emissions.

Should the workers camp be approved by Whitsunday Regional Council, Hamilton Island may be more equipped to welcome the world in 2032.